About

Purpose

The purpose of this lesson is to introduce a new food to the children in your classroom. The more times children are exposed to new foods, the more likely they are to eat and enjoy these foods in the future.

Overview

In this lesson, children will describe what a celery looks like under a magnifying glass. Children will also share if they like how a celery feels, smells, and tastes.

Learning Objectives

  1. Children will complete the first of four celery stalk tasting experiences.
  2. Children will describe what a celery stalk looks like under a magnifying glass.

Teaching Objectives

  1. Teachers will model healthy eating behavior by participating alongside the children.

Teaching Tips

  • Remember that the more times children are exposed to a new food, the more likely they are to develop a taste preference for that food.
  • Children are more likely to try a new food if an adult models the behavior!
  • Some children may not try the food at the first opportunity, so do not pressure them to try it as they are more likely to try it next time.

Prep Info

knife and cutting board

Equipment Required

materials

Materials/Supplies

* Optional

Before the Lesson

  • Select one celery stalk with leaves for children to closely examine with magnifying glasses.
  • Wash the celery stalks to ensure they are clean and safe to taste.
  • Prepare tasting samples of celery for each child.
  • Snap the stalks to remove the strings, making them easier to chew.
  • Cut the celery into 3-inch sticks no wider than ½ inch.

Activity

Introduction

This activity will work well as a circle time activity and at tables, in small groups, for tasting.

Words to Use

Activity Description

  1. Gather the children in a circle and explain that everybody is going to be a food detective. Remind the children that a good food detective uses their eyes, ears, hands, and mouth to collect clues.
  2. Pass the whole celery stalk with leaves around the circle and encourage each child to touch the celery and look at it with their magnifying glass.
  3. Ask the children what the celery looks like and if they like the way it feels on their hands.
  4. Ask the children to wash their hands and go to their tables.
  5. Provide the plate(s) of tasting samples at the tables. Encourage children to smell the celery before tasting it.

Summary

Enrichment

Did you know celery grows straight up from the ground in tall, crunchy stalks? Pretend you are a celery stalk reaching forthe sun. How far can you reach?

Attention Teachers!

Following this activity, please fill out the teacher’s weekly log form for this lesson.

Weekly Log

Attention Teachers!

Following this activity, please fill out the teacher’s weekly log form for this lesson.